Toronto, Ontario – The Ontario provincial government is warning drivers that the changing season brings more wildlife onto roads and that drivers need to be extra vigilant.

On average, there are 14,000 vehicle/wildlife collisions in Ontario every year, or one every 37 minutes. Of these, 83 per cent happen on two-lane roads outside of urban areas. Most occur during dusk or dawn, with 87 per cent in good weather.

The government offers the following tips:

- Scan the road ahead from shoulder to shoulder. If there is wildlife  beside the road, slow down and pass carefully.

- Watch for the yellow wildlife warning signs that indicate areas of increased risk, and slow down when travelling through these areas.

- Use high beams at night when possible, and watch for the glowing eyes of animals.

- If one animal crosses the road, others may follow.

- Never swerve suddenly. This could cause you to lose control of the vehicle and result in a more serious collision.